Since the XK120 debuted in the late 1940’s, Jaguar had developed a knack at shocking the public at motor shows. The E-Type first appeared to a stunned public at the 1961 Geneva Auto Salon, earning praise from press, public and fellow automakers alike. Jaguar boss Sir William Lyons and his chief aerodynamicist Malcolm Sayer paired up to design this new sports car, which was to replace the ageing XK150. The new car employed a semi-monocoque tub that utilized ingenious bolt-on front subframes to support the engine and independent front suspension, inspired by the LeMans winning D-Type. The rear was handled by the now ubiquitous modular independent rear suspension, pioneered on the Mk10. The E-type boasted four wheel disc brakes, torsion bar front suspension, and a 3.8 liter version of the XK’s twin-cam inline six pumping out a startling 265 horsepower. One of the only carry-overs from the XK150 was the durable Moss four-speed transmission.

This high tech chassis was wrapped in a gorgeous body that was quite unlike anything that had been seen before. Beautiful, curvaceous and with just the right amount of aggression, the E-Type was a smashing success from day one. Fascinatingly, co-designer Malcolm Sayer had no interest in setting out to design a beautiful car. He was more interested in aerodynamics and applying his experience with the D-Type toward a functional design. Though with a bit of irony, the E-Type was not terribly aerodynamically efficient, but it was achingly beautiful. Shortly after production began, footwells were integrated into the floor, allowing for a bit more space and comfort. In its day, an E-type could easily hang with a contemporary Ferrari or Aston Martin while costing a fraction of the price of more exotic machines. Long considered one of the most beautiful production cars of all time and with the performance to back it up, the E-Type is a perennial favorite among collectors and drivers alike.

This gorgeous first series 3.8 liter E-Type roadster presents in excellent restored condition. It has its original matching number engine as verified by a Jaguar Daimler Heritage Certificate. During the restoration, it was brought down to bare metal and resprayed in the original Cream color. The paint work is excellent and the body has been refreshed with new rubber trim and restored chrome. As per the original specification, the interior was alsofully restored and re-trimmed in black Connolly leather with a matching black convertible top in the correct material. A period correct radio is fitted to the center console. This being a drop floor example, the cockpit is comfortable and inviting, with the correct fixed-back seats as fitted to 3.8 liter models.

It is reported to have a rebuilt engine and new clutch, ensuring strong running. Again as part of the restoration, the brakes were refreshed, a new stainless steel exhaust fitted, and the chrome wire wheels fitted with new radial period correct reproduction radial tires. The results are impressive and the car presents very well, the cream paint being particularly well suited to the early E-Type. Included in the sale are the original jack and hammer, period manual with wallet as well as the aforementioned Heritage Certificate. This is a very fine, very nicely restored early E-type 3.8 that should prove to be a worthy addition to any collection and provide plenty of gratification for the next owner.

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